Asilus sericeus

Say, 1823

Butterflyhunter

Asilus sericeus is a of robber fly in the Asilidae. The larvae measure 18–20 mm in length and live underground. are aerial that capture prey in . Unlike some other members of the family, they have not been reported feeding on bees or .

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Asilus sericeus: /əˈsaɪləs səˈrɪsiːəs/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

No specific diagnostic features distinguishing Asilus sericeus from are documented in available sources. Identification to level likely requires examination of genitalic structures or other subtle morphological characters typical of the Asilus.

Appearance

are robber flies with the characteristic robust, predatory body plan typical of the Asilidae. Larvae measure 18–20 mm in length.

Habitat

Larvae inhabit underground environments. preferences are not specifically documented, but as with most robber flies, they likely occupy open, sunny areas where flying insect prey is abundant.

Distribution

Recorded from Vermont, United States. The full extent of its range within North America is not well documented in available sources.

Diet

catch prey in . They have not been reported feeding on bees or , unlike some other Asilidae .

Life Cycle

Larvae are subterranean, measuring 18–20 mm in length. Details of and are not documented.

Behavior

are aerial that capture prey in . Larvae live underground, presumably as predators or scavengers in soil .

Ecological Role

. function as aerial insect predators. Larvae likely contribute to soil dynamics as subterranean predators or scavengers.

Similar Taxa

Other Asilus speciesCongeneric share the general robber fly and predatory habits; specific identification requires detailed morphological examination.
Other Asilidae generaMany robber fly share similar predatory and general body plan; Asilus may be distinguished by tribal and generic-level characters.

More Details

Nomenclature

First described by Thomas Say in 1823. The 'Butterflyhunter' is used on iNaturalist, though the etymology of this name is not documented in available sources.

Data gaps

Significant gaps exist in documented knowledge for this , including size, coloration, detailed requirements, full geographic range, seasonality, and specific prey preferences.